The following message (subject: Re: Cleaning Blade) was posted by bes, on 6/2/2005 1:08:25 PM:

I recommend trying a rag wet with soapy water first. Don't wet anything but the handle. Just wipe at a small area till the gunk comes off. This will take a while. A rough textured rag might help (e.g. burlap). Afterwards, wipe with another rag moistened with plain water, then let the blade dry.

The water will raise the grain a bit (make it a bit fuzzy), so you may have to lightly sand with 180 or finer grit sandpaper.

I'd probably try sealing the handle with a very light coat of shellac - try a 1# cut (1# shellac flakes or beads to 1 gallon of alcohol).

If the handle is Super-Nasty, you might want to try solvents. Start with naptha, orange oil (d-Limonine), or one of the commercial products (Goof Off etc.). These are a bit harsher on you than the water, but should break down the oily residue pretty well.